"Well, you can begin now if you feel so inclined, though I suppose the young man did no more than his duty after all." "Oh, Nick, a man isn't obliged to go so far as that!" she exclaimed reproachfully.

"There are plenty who wouldn't." "Doubtless," agreed Nick, looking faintly quizzical.

"It was the action of a fool--but a brave fool.

We'll grant him that much, shall we ?" She laughed a little, her cheek against his shoulder.

"Don't poke fun at me! It isn't fair.